Position Overview

The Director of Development is responsible for planning, directing, and overseeing all fundraising, communications, and community relations activities at Dutchess Day School. This individual will work closely with the Head of School, Board of Trustees, parents, alumni, and the broader school community to secure financial resources that support the school’s mission, vision, and strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising & Development:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy that includes annual giving, major gifts, capital campaigns, endowment, and planned giving.
• Cultivate and steward relationships with current and potential donors, including parents, alumni, corporations, and foundations.
• Identify and pursue new revenue streams, including grant writing and community partnerships.
• Organize and manage fundraising events, including galas, auctions, and donor appreciation events.
• Oversee the school’s annual fund drive, ensuring the achievement of fundraising goals.
• Work with the Head of School and Board of Trustees to identify major gift prospects and develop strategies for solicitation.

Alumni & Community Relations:

• Develop and implement an alumni relations program to foster meaningful engagement and philanthropic support.
• Act as a liaison between the school and key external stakeholders, including community organizations, corporations, and local media.
• Lead the school's communication strategy, ensuring consistent messaging through newsletters, social media, and press releases.
• Work with volunteer leadership groups, such as a parent association or alumni board, to support fundraising initiatives.

Donor Management & Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of all donations and donor engagement in a fundraising database.
• Provide regular reports on the progress of fundraising campaigns to the Head of School and Board of Trustees.
• Ensure timely donor acknowledgment and recognition through personalized letters, public recognition, and stewardship events.
• Prepare materials for Board meetings and serve as a staff liaison for development-related committees.

Strategic Planning:

• Collaborate with the Head of School and senior leadership team to align fundraising strategies with the school's strategic plan and priorities.
• Conduct feasibility studies and research for upcoming capital campaigns or other major initiatives.
• Participate in the school's long-term financial planning by forecasting philanthropic income and identifying opportunities for growth.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of experience in development, fundraising (preferably in an independent school or nonprofit environment), and or finance.
• Proven track record of securing major gifts and leading successful capital campaigns.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with fundraising databases and software (e.g., Raiser’s Edge, Blackbaud) is highly desirable.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Personal Attributes:

• Passionate about the mission and values of Dutchess Day School.
• A strong connection to the greater Millbrook community would be a significant benefit.
• Strong sense of integrity and commitment to the principles of philanthropy.
• A creative and strategic thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with high expectations for results.

About Dutchess Day School

Dutchess Day School is an elementary and middle school that provides a strong academic foundation, values children’s natural curiosity, and fosters an enduring enthusiasm for learning. In an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect, students are encouraged to take intellectual, athletic, and artistic risks and to develop independence, confidence, and imagination. Dutchess Day School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its employment policies, educational policies, admissions policies, financial aid and loan programs, and other school-administered programs.

Connections working at Dutchess Day School